The New York City Fire Department’s Ladder Company 11 has been ordered to remove a symbol honoring fallen responders from its fire truck. The symbol is a thin red American flag, which some have deemed “too politically charged for public vehicles.”
This flag has been displayed on the fire truck for years as a way to honor the six firefighters who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. However, it was recently brought to the attention of Democratic Manhattan Councilwoman Carlina Rivera’s office, who questioned whether it was a political symbol and suggested that it should be taken down. The councilwoman’s office then reached out to the FDNY, asking if there were any “violating flags/symbols” on Ladder Company 11.
The FDNY responded by sending a deputy chief to the firehouse, who requested that the flag be removed. This decision was reportedly made due to a department-wide ban on altered versions of the American flag, implemented last year amid the Black Lives Matter protests.
Sources say that the deputy chief was hesitant to order the flag’s removal, calling it “ridiculous.” Firefighters at Ladder Company 11 were also disappointed by the decision, with one saying, “This flag has huge significance for us.”
Despite the initial order to remove the flag, now-Commissioner Laura Kavanagh and Chief of Department John Hodgens have reversed the decision, allowing the flag to be displayed once again.
Republican City Councilwoman Joann Ariola praised this decision, thanking Chief Hodgens for showing “great personal courage” in standing up against pressure from certain political forces.
It is concerning to see that a symbol meant to honor fallen heroes and bring unity among first responders is being deemed as “too politically charged.” It is a sad reality that we are living in a time when anything that differs from certain ideologies is censored and shamed.
The fact that the FDNY had to reverse its decision and allow the flag to be displayed again is a step in the right direction. We cannot let political pressure dictate what symbols and values we choose to honor.
Chief Hodgens’ decision to restore the flag is a reminder that bravery and honor should always prevail over political correctness. It is a courageous act to go against the will of radicals in government and stand up for what is right. We can only hope that this courage and honor will continue to spread throughout our city and country.
We must not forget the sacrifices of the six firefighters who lost their lives on 9/11, and we must also honor the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to protect our communities.
The thin red line flag represents the courage and sacrifice of these heroes, and it should be displayed with pride and respect. Let us never forget the true meaning behind this flag and the importance of honoring those who serve and protect us.
